In fact, a growing trend involves putting a tub outdoors. It can be practical, decorative or some combination of both. But if you're thinking about jumping on the bandwagon, you might want to do some planning first. We've compiled a list of outdoor bathtub ideas that we think will help redefine your space. The details will be up to you, but these broad tips will help you get started. We think you'll get some inspiration from the plans below. Folks have been experimenting with the trend for years, and we've got the benefit of their creativity.  

Whether you want to increase your outdoor time or just spruce up an area, keep reading. Adding a bathtub is a novel idea -- but it can work in a variety of ways. And whatever your home looks like, there are options available to take advantage of this trend. Here are some of our favorites.

Do you have an open deck on your property? You probably already love sitting out there on a nice day and checking out the view. But adding a nice bathtub can create both a new look and different opportunities to relax. 

Make sure you've got plenty of space and find a spot where you can still have a great view. Relaxing in your tub can give you some of the same feelings as an outdoor whirlpool. But with still water, there's less maintenance and upkeep. Plus, when designed and installed correctly, it can add some beauty to the space.

Like any outdoor bathtub ideas, this can create an instant conversation piece. You can also put a bathtub on a porch or patio. But decks seem to offer the most interrupted views and interesting layouts. Plus, since they're usually large, you can separate the space and have a typical deck layout elsewhere.

Maybe you've seen advertisements or commercials where folks are lounging in a bathtub. Sometimes they are placed in the middle of a large field. You might wonder where this idea came from -- and that can be hard to determine. But the trend is actually starting to catch on. Among the outdoor bathtub ideas out there, this one is one of the most obscure and interesting. 

People living in an area adjacent to an expansive field might think there's not much to do with it. After all, it's the epitome of nature as either crops or wild grains cover the earth. But taking a small area of that space to embellish with a bathtub is an inventive way to renovate. 

This is an inexpensive way to add a focus piece to an otherwise homogeneous area. Whether it's functional or just artistic, the benefits can be clear. Just allowing it to sit can allow it to become a gathering place for birds. Of course, you'll want to keep it clean and avoid standing water after storms. Or, you could fill it yourself and relax in your own tub as you enjoy the uninterrupted views.

Everybody can use a relaxing day at the spa. With a tub and a few luxurious accessories, you can have one on your own property. This is one of our favorite outdoor bathtub ideas because it can be so useful. 

If you have a gazebo, this would make an excellent use of that space. Pick a claw foot tub in whatever design you like. Install some tables and find luxurious candles, towels and other necessities to add to the decor. 

Whether you want to fill it with water or just add some soft bedding on the bottom, lay back. Bring on the tunes with a nice sound system. And string up some lighting to set just the right mood. Let the stress melt away as you survey your own property. 

There's something peaceful about a dirt road. Living off the beaten path can instantly reunite you with nature. And if you're fortunate enough to have property away from the city, you can really make the most of it.

One easy way is by implementing a rustic bathtub. Pick a pedestal tub, and allow it to be weathered a bit if it suits your style. Of course, rust should be avoided at all costs if you're going to actually be using it as a tub.

But when you find just the right specimen, add it to a quaint spot on your property. Of all the outdoor bathtub ideas on our list, this one might the most open to interpretation. Since rural areas are all different, you can make this your own. Sit your tub under an aged tree or along a rugged path. View whatever nature and wildlife is common to your region in perfect imperfection. 

You've probably seen plenty of hot tubs situated beside a swimming pool. But what about a bathtub? Well, if you're looking for outdoor bathtub ideas and have and have a pool, it could be a great option.

Make sure there's plenty of room on the perimeter to safely install or place your tub. If not, you can position it in the yard adjacent to the pool itself. Either way you go, it can add to the refreshing feel of the existing pool.

Take a relaxing soak after a dip in the pool. You can rig up a heater to keep it warm or transfer the nearby chlorinated water. Bring in a good book or a glass of wine and really allow the weight of the world to evaporate. Then, when you get to a good stopping place, you can always take another dive. 

Perhaps this is the simplest of all our outdoor bathtub ideas. But if you've got the right backyard, it could be the most appropriate. All it takes is a design that will match the style you're going for. And when you find the perfect spot, you can prepare it for the tub installation. 

You might want to aim for a spot that is not covered in grass. The tub and other features could cause it to wither and die. So you can either prepare a spot with whatever turf you want or use an existing space. 

Grab a pail of ice and some cold beers or prepare your favorite cocktail. You can take a load off of your shoulders and all it takes is a few steps out your back door. If you have fencing or your neighbors aren't nearby, you might find it's quite the miniature getaway. On some stressful days, all it takes is a slight change of scenery to put things in a better perspective. 

Whether you have a lot of room or just a small patch to fill, a tub could be your answer. And with countless styles available, you can really make it yours. Choose the best luxury accessories to turn your exterior of your home into its own oasis.

We hope our list has helped spark some creative ideas for your unused space. If so, share this article with the home decorators in your life. And leave us a comment below if you have any final thoughts or questions.

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